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IST → LHR
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to London Heathrow Airport (London)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side is preferred primarily for the iconic arrival into London Heathrow, offering a world-class aerial tour of the London skyline when landing on Runway 27.
Search flights from IST to LHR
Bosphorus Bridge
Aerial perspective of the bridges connecting Europe and Asia shortly after takeoff.
Budapest Skyline
Clear views of the Hungarian Parliament building and the Danube River passing through the city.
North Sea Coast
The geometric patterns of Dutch polders and the intricate Belgian coastline.
Central London
Unmatched views of the London Eye, Big Ben, and the Shard during the final approach.
The right side is essential for the 'River Walk' approach into Heathrow. Most flights land facing west; sitting on the right typically provides the best view of the Thames and Central London landmarks. Keep your camera ready during the final 10 minutes of the flight.
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Alpine Vistas
Distant but spectacular panoramic views of the Swiss and Austrian Alps to the South.
Rhine Gorge
Historic German castles and steep vineyards visible along the winding river bends.
English Channel
The world's busiest shipping lanes and the white cliffs of the Kent coastline.
Marmara Coast
Views of the southern Istanbul suburbs and the Sea of Marmara during the initial ascent.
Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise reflecting off the Alps. However, avoid this side on late afternoon flights as the direct southern sun can create significant glare and heat through the window.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for United KingdomDistance: 2,489 km (1,547 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 19 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)
Route Type: International
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